If you are craving a meal that is quick, comforting, and packed with vibrant Italian flavors, this Penne with Chicken and Pesto Recipe will absolutely delight you. Tender chunks of chicken meet al dente penne pasta, all swirled together in a luscious, herbaceous basil pesto sauce with a pop of sweetness from cherry tomatoes. It’s a simple dish that feels anything but ordinary, perfect for busy weeknights or impressing friends at a casual dinner. Every bite bursts with freshness and comfort, making this recipe a dependable go-to when you want a satisfying meal without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Penne with Chicken and Pesto Recipe lies in its straightforward, vibrant ingredients. Each item plays a key role in building harmonious flavors and pleasing textures that elevate the dish above your standard pasta bowl.
- 12 oz penne pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto that creamy pesto sauce with every forkful.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps cook the chicken to a golden finish.
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces: Provides lean protein and takes on seasoning beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the underlying natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right subtle heat to balance the dish.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Brings a fresh burst of juiciness and vibrant color.
- 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto: The heart of the dish with its bright, nutty, and herbaceous notes.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving): Delivers savory depth and a slight tanginess that ties everything together.
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water: Helps loosen the sauce into a silky texture that clings to the penne.
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh herbal finish and a beautiful pop of green on the plate.
How to Make Penne with Chicken and Pesto Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Start by cooking your penne in a large pot of salted boiling water until it’s perfectly al dente. This is important because the pasta will continue to absorb sauce later on. Reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining — this starchy liquid will be your secret weapon for a creamy, luscious sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 6 to 8 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and completely cooked through. The key here is patience to get that nice sear which locks in flavor and juiciness.
Step 3: Add Cherry Tomatoes and Pesto
Once your chicken is perfectly cooked, lower the heat to medium-low and toss in the halved cherry tomatoes. Let them soften just a bit for a minute or two — you want the tomatoes to release their sweet juices without turning mushy. Now stir in the prepared basil pesto along with the reserved pasta water. This combination transforms into a silky sauce that wraps around every bite.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained penne to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in that fragrant pesto sauce. Finish by sprinkling in the grated Parmesan cheese, which melts gently and adds a rich, savory layer. Give one last toss and you’re ready to serve.
How to Serve Penne with Chicken and Pesto Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves scattered on top make a stunning garnish that emphasizes the pesto’s herbal backbone. A little extra grated Parmesan cheese never hurts either — it adds a salty, nutty finish that your taste buds will thank you for.
Side Dishes
This dish stands strong on its own, but if you want to complement it, consider a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or some garlic bread for soaking up any leftover sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini also pair beautifully, adding texture and earthiness.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking of adding a little flair? Serve this Penne with Chicken and Pesto Recipe in shallow bowls to highlight its vibrant colors. You can also layer it in clear glass containers for a picnic or potluck, letting the layers of pasta, chicken, and pesto shine through. A drizzle of quality olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper finishes the presentation perfectly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Penne with Chicken and Pesto Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to store the pasta and sauce together so the flavors continue to meld deliciously.
Freezing
While freezing pasta can sometimes affect texture, this dish freezes reasonably well if stored properly. Place it in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until warmed through. Avoid overheating to maintain the chicken’s tenderness and the pasta’s texture.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pesto for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade pesto adds a wonderful fresh flavor, and you can customize it by adjusting the garlic, nuts, or cheese to your liking. Store-bought pesto works great too for convenience.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the chicken and toss in extra vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or roasted bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian version that still captures the essence of the recipe.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Penne is ideal because its ridges and hollow shape hold onto the pesto sauce perfectly, but other pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli would also be excellent substitutes.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can cook the chicken and boil the pasta ahead of time, but it’s best to combine everything just before serving to maintain freshness and texture in your Penne with Chicken and Pesto Recipe.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free penne pasta instead of regular pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this dish easy to enjoy if you’re avoiding gluten.
Final Thoughts
This Penne with Chicken and Pesto Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that offers both comfort and a burst of fresh flavors without complicated steps. It’s a dish that feels special, yet comes together quickly making weeknight dinners feel like a treat. I really hope you give it a try and make it one of your favorite pasta dinners too!
Print
Penne with Chicken and Pesto Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Penne with Chicken and Pesto is a quick and flavorful Italian-inspired main course dish featuring tender chicken pieces, al dente penne pasta, and a vibrant basil pesto sauce, finished with fresh cherry tomatoes and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. Set the drained pasta aside.
- Cook the chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Cook the tomatoes: Reduce the heat to low. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet with the chicken and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the tomatoes soften slightly.
- Make the sauce: Stir in the prepared basil pesto and the reserved pasta water into the skillet, mixing well to create a smooth sauce that coats the chicken and tomatoes.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the pesto sauce mixture.
- Finish and serve: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss gently. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve the dish warm.
Notes
- You can use store-bought or homemade pesto according to preference.
- For extra flavor and nutrition, stir in a handful of fresh spinach or arugula just before serving.
- This dish can be made faster by using cooked rotisserie chicken instead of fresh chicken breast.
